Avoiding "Spring Transport Illness" During the Holiday Rush: Stay Hydrated and Avoid Prolonged Sitting
Recently, alarming incidents involving travelers collapsing in train stations in major cities like Beijing and Hangzhou have drawn attention to health issues during the busy spring travel season. One passenger lost consciousness while waiting in the Beijing train station, while another elderly man closed his eyes forever while queuing for tickets.
The "spring transport illness" has once again become a focal point of concern. As we enter the peak period of spring travel, the crowded and stifling environment, combined with the significant climatic differences between northern and southern regions, can exacerbate health problems. These can range from motion sickness, digestive and respiratory disorders, mental health issues, to complications such as thrombosis. In light of this, we consulted health experts to provide insights that can help travelers maintain their well-being.
Preventing Motion Sickness: Rest Well Before Traveling
Motion sickness is a common complaint during travel. Being confined in a moving vehicle for long periods can lead to nausea, dizziness, and even hallucinations, not just for those prone to motion sickness but for anyone.
Dr. Zhao Shimin from the Digestive Department of Tangdu Hospital in Xi'an explains that motion sickness can be attributed to prolonged jolting, anxiety, and excessive fatigue, especially in crowded and poorly ventilated spaces.
Expert Tips: To mitigate the risk of motion sickness, it’s essential to ensure adequate rest before departure. Taking an anti-motion sickness medication at least half an hour prior to traveling can also help. During the journey, minimize head movements and avoid looking at rapidly passing scenery. Placing a foam cushion around the neck can assist in absorbing jolts to the brain and spine. If possible, open a window for fresh air, or focus your gaze ahead, close your eyes, listen to music, or engage in conversation to distract yourself. Should symptoms like dizziness, nausea, fatigue, or vomiting occur, recline and apply a cool towel to the forehead.
For those with a history of motion sickness, it is advisable to avoid fatty foods before traveling and opt for lighter, easily digestible meals.
Preventing Thrombosis: Stay Hydrated and Move Regularly
“During the spring travel season, the limited seating space and proximity of passengers can significantly increase the risk of thrombosis,” warns Dr. Zhang Chaoying from the Cardiology Department of Jiaotong University’s Second Affiliated Hospital. Maintaining a static seated position for extended periods can reduce the blood flow in the lower limbs, leading to the formation of blood clots. Some of these clots may dissolve on their own; however, others can travel through the bloodstream and cause serious complications such as heart attacks or pulmonary embolisms, which can be fatal.
Expert Tips: To prevent thrombosis while traveling, it’s vital to avoid long periods of inactivity. Make it a priority to stand up and move around whenever possible. If circumstances prevent you from standing, frequently change your sitting position and perform small movements with your calves and toes. Massaging your legs from top to bottom can aid blood flow as well. Consider giving up your seat temporarily to allow someone standing to sit down, taking a moment to stretch and move about before resuming your seat—this not only benefits you but also helps others. In addition, staying hydrated is crucial to facilitating improved blood circulation and metabolism, which helps avoid thickening of the blood that could lead to clot formation.
Conclusion
As the spring travel rush approaches, being aware of potential health hazards is essential for ensuring a safe and enjoyable journey. By following these expert recommendations, you can minimize the risks associated with travel and stay healthy during the holiday season.